Cuba before Fidel Castro

Political unrest (1934-1952)

Cuba as many other countries who have experienced dictatorship was a county in a chaotic position when the dictatorship was established. In the years 1934 to 1956 the political aspects of Cuba is highly corrupted. Furthermore, in the years between 1934 and 1940 General Fulgencio Bastista controlled the nation by the appointment of puppet presidents. However, in 1940 Batista becomes president himself and rules until 1944 but corruption continues. 
     The unrest though continues. In the years 1944-1952 a quick return to democracy is seen, but the government is still greatly corrupted. All of this happens while the population is faced with inflation and unemployment. On the 10th of march 1952 Batista overthrew President Carlos Prío Socarrás and returns to dictatorship. 

Batista's rule between 1952 and 1959

The corruption continues in all these years and at a shocking level. Sadly as the economic problems worsened, social and political unrest evolved, which lead Batista to maintain control by using repression.  
     The biggest economic problem was the price decline on the sugar market. Cuba depended on its sugar because it was with the money from the sugar they were able to buy goods and oil. This situation is known as 'Deterioration of the terms of trade'. The obligations Cuba had with the US made it impossible to develops its industry to substitute its imports. The unemployment rose to 17%  during the late 50's which was combined with a 13% level of underemployment and low wages for those who were employed. 
     All classes within society were unsatisfied with Batista's rule. The rural workers were poorly housed and under educated, urban workers were affected by the economic problems, students were demanding freedom and democracy and lastly the higher social classes were loosing power and they were as well affected by the unstable economy. The means for opposition was there, but the people were yet to find a leading figure.
    However, the greatest challenge for the government would not be the people but the alternative party Fidel Castro, which gave the people a totally new movement to support.


All information is from Pearsons 'History, 20th Century World, Authoritarian and single-Party States', 2010